Child Star Kylend Hetherington Says Message of Billy Elliot Is Important to Tell

About the Show

'This show is very important, especially now with all the bullying that is happening in the world.'

The message of Billy Elliot has touched audiences and critics around the world, but few are affected more by the inspiring story of a boy who dreams of becoming a dancer than the cast. Kylend Hetherington, who plays the title role in the national tour, which comes to Ottawa's National Arts Centre from January 1 through January 6, told Broadway.com why he thinks the themes of the Tony Award-winning musical hits audiences so hard.

“This show is very important, especially now with all the bullying that is happening in the world,” Hetherington said. “It's OK to be different and people need to be allowed to express what is special about them.” Hetherington even cited the musical’s lyrics. “Like our song ‘Expressing Yourself’ says, ‘What the hell is wrong with expressing yourself, for wanting to be me.’ I love being able to share this with new people every night in cities all over the country.”

Based on the Academy Award-nominated film, Billy Elliot tells the story of one boy's journey to make his dreams come true. Set in a small British mining town, the plot follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising passion that inspires his family and his whole community. Billy Elliot is brought to life by a Tony-winning creative team, which includes director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall, along with a score by music legend Elton John.